Former Barcelona midfielder Joan Gonzalez has been forced to retire from professional football at the young age of 23. This difficult decision came after medical staff at his current club, Lecce, diagnosed him with a significant heart condition. The club`s president highlighted the seriousness of the discovery, stating, “We saved his life.”
Gonzalez began his career in the renowned youth academy of Barcelona before transferring to Lecce`s youth setup in 2021.
He successfully advanced to the senior team, accumulating 64 appearances in Serie A, during which he contributed two goals and four assists.
The heart irregularity was initially detected last summer during standard pre-season medical examinations conducted by Lecce`s medical team, prompting a recommendation for further detailed tests.
Specialists advised waiting for a year to determine if the condition could improve with treatment. However, as subsequent evaluations showed no change, Gonzalez made the decision to conclude his playing career.
Lecce`s Medical Team Praised
Lecce President Saverio Sticchi Damiani commented on the situation during a recent press conference at the end of the season.
“We saved his life,” said the president.
“I have to congratulate our medical staff and the cardiologist Professor Tondo, because they discovered this irregularity and saved the lad’s life. I also compliment Gonzalez, because he received the news with great calm.”
“Joan is already studying economics, and I hope he will become a great business manager.”
Having already been sidelined for a full year due to the ongoing medical assessments, Gonzalez proactively enrolled at university to study economics and business. He is now focused on pursuing a future in football administration or management off the pitch.
